Dave Armstrong, CEO of GreenStone Farm Credit Services, responds to an op-ed published in the Lansing State Journal on Sept. 9.

A Sept. 9 op-ed authored by a representative of the Sierra Club attacking the planned milk processing plant in St. Johns is not only misguided, but ignores many facts about livestock production and the jobs and economic benefits the St. Johns facility will bring to the local community.

Michigan dairy farmers face uncertain times. With disruptions in traditional markets, milk production exceeding local processing capacity and declining profits across the board, this processing facility is critical for the local dairy industry. The processing facility will result in a net benefit to local farmers and the surrounding St. Johns community, which relies heavily on agriculture.